Roofless Bonkers Lexus LX Built For Falconry

The extravagant Lexus LX is a popular car among off-road aficionados, much like its mainstream brother, the Toyota Land Cruiser, since it's just as competent and trustworthy as the LC while adding a touch of elegance. Even though the LX has had its good share of modifications, we've never seen one exactly like this.

It's a third-generation model, however, it was released before the 2016 model year's more extensive redesign. Since there isn't a folding roof in the rear, this custom-built LX for falconry has sacrificed its top altogether. The tailgate has been replaced by a sedan-style trunk lid with third brake light.

A roll bar has been implemented to protect the driver and front passenger if something goes catastrophically wrong, but we can't say the same for those in the rear, who are more exposed. 

After detaching the roof, it's unknown whether the LX has been exposed to skin-deep alterations to strengthen the chassis. The center and corners of the front and back bumpers have been removed to enhance the car's arrival and departure angles. As you'd expect from an off-road-oriented design, there are also some additional LED lights. The only interior modification is a rollbar that doubles as a resting area for the trained bird of prey.

LX 570's naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8 gasoline motor is retained, with 362 hp (270 kilowatts) and 391 pound-feet (530 Nm) of torque. Following what must have been a substantial weight drop after eliminating the top, it's likely a bit speedier than the factory car. However, we wouldn't be keen to test the acceleration performance of the chassis without tightening it up, especially during peak corners.

Because the roofless Lexus LX has a license plate and is being operated on public highways, it has been properly licensed and documented. The SUV, according to the ArabGT reviewer, complies with UAE laws, and anybody interested may register and license it simply in the UAE.